Kumbi Kariwo, 40, lives in Birmingham with her partner Andy, 37.
Cliff climbing is a ballet of precision and accuracy - not speed. It begins with a thrilling descent down rocks, and I need skill and strength to keep me from plunging into the sea. Without this bravery, I wouldn't see the stunning views.
Since joining a climbing club with Andy, in our late 20s, we now climb with friends and our club, Extreme Sports Central. We enjoy climbs in Ogwen Valley, North Wales, and in June 2023, took on the challenging cliff climb of Rhoscolyn's Symphony Crack in Anglesey. Next, we're planning to climb in the Rockies during a visit to my parents in Canada.
My job as a senior NHS nurse can often feel like I'm on a treadmill; climbing helps me recharge. The summit offers a serene moment of reflection and is the most important moment of the climb. Despite the adrenaline, it makes me feel calm. Climbing grants me a sense of youth, freedom and capability. I've always been curious and mischievous. I think in these traits, adventure thrives.
The lessons learnt on the cliffs permeate daily life. Be kind to yourself, pace yourself, savour the beauty around you... and try to laugh along the way.
'I DIDN'T KNOW HOW STRONG I WAS'
Heather Miller, 50, lives in Streatley, Berkshire, with her husband James, 54, and their children Jay, 14, and Toby, 12.
With my 50th birthday approaching, friends asked whether I was having a party. But I didn't want one. I wanted to travel and challenge myself. I've always enjoyed cycling, so when my old university friend Suzie recommended a Korean drama, that led me to suggesting we cycle across South Korea.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The benefits of waking up early
I can almost feel my daughters rolling their eyes at the thought of me writing about the joys of waking up early.
'Rylan makes me MILLIONS!
The presenter talks about his love life, professional success and his alter ego
GATSBY
He needed a home, but was Maria barking to even consider taking him in?
My mindset MAKEOVER
After losing 4st, the future is bright for Hazel James
Eat more WEIGH LESS
Feel fuller while losing weight with our exclusive plan from Slimming World
Autumn tricks YOU NEED TO KNOW
Stop cold, dark nights disturbing your sleep with these expert cheats
'HARRY WILL NOT BE BACK'
Reports of Prince Harry wanting to return to the UK and royal duties are, I’m told, ‘completely wrong’.
'I'M HONOURED to still be part of Strictly'
Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke on the hit show and why he'll never retire
Would you keep CANCER A SECRET?
Model Elle Macpherson revealed she kept her battle with the disease hidden - we find out why many others choose to do the same
'Ruth has handled the split WITH DIGNITY'
Coleen Nolan on grief, supporting Ruth Langsford through divorce and moving in with boyfriend Michael Jones